Dr. Allan Metzger testified for the defense - Day 16 -

Dr. Allan Metzger, who treated Michael Jackson off and on for more than 15 years for "his profound sleep disorder,"  and toured with him, testified as a defense witness Monday that Jackson called him to his home on April 18, 2009, to ask for help.

Metzger said Jackson asked for intravenous drugs as he spoke of his anxiety about performing at the sold-out, 50-show concert series.

"His fear was that this was a big obligation," Metzger, a Beverly Hills internist, testified. "He realized it was a huge ordeal to do that."

This testimony is in sharp contrast with those of Kenny Ortega and AEG Co- CEO Paul Gongaware, which have respectively testified that Michael Jackson was excited and positive about the future and that he had wanted to increase the shows at 50.

Metzger said Jackson was also excited and believed he was "up to the task," but was deeply concerned about his health and especially his inability to sleep. In the April 18, 2009, meeting at his home, Jackson asked about getting intravenous sleep medication, saying drugs taken orally didn't work, the doctor recalled.

Metzger said Jackson did not ask about a specific drug by name, but mentioned he wanted "some form of an anesthetic."

"I think he used the word 'juice,' " referring to intravenous drugs, Metzger said. Jackson did not mention propofol, the surgical anesthetic that killed him, the doctor testified.

Under cross-examination by a prosecutor, Metzger said he advised Jackson against using such drugs for insomnia.

"When Michael Jackson inquired about intravenous sleep medication, you explained to him that was dangerous, life-threatening and should not be done outside of a hospital, is that correct?" Deputy Dist. Atty. David Walgren asked.

"That's correct," he replied.

Jackson wanted the anesthetic delivered by IV because "he did not believe any oral medicine would be helpful," Metzger said.

Metzger declined Jackson's request, instead giving him prescriptions for two oral sedatives to help him sleep.

Under cross-examination, Deputy District Attorney David Walgren asked Metzger, "Is there any amount of money that would have convinced you to give him intravenous propofol in his house?"

"Absolutely not," Metzger answered.